1913 First Pattern Wall Autowheel on Rover Bicycle

By 1913, Rover had moved from a cycle manufacturer to a motorcycle builder. Their cycle agencies around the country now sold motorcycles too. 1913 also saw the introduction of the Wall Auto-wheel, the fist motorcycle designed with female riders in mind.

As women were now comfortable on bicycles, a self-contained ‘autowheel’ unit that fitted alongside the bicycle was a very practical design, and it proved extremely popular throughout its lifetime. In fact, demand was so great for the Autowheel in 1913 that the company could not meet all their outstanding orders, and they awarded a contract to BSA to manufacture them. BSA Wall Autowheels made from 1914 onwards were of a different design.

1913 First Pattern Wall Auto-wheel fitted to Lady’s Rover Bicycle

23″ Frame

28″ Wheels

(Now sold)

This bicycle was exhibited for many years (as a solo machine) at the museum on the Isle of Wight.

I bought it last year, after the museum closed down.

I fitted my restored 1913 Wall Autowheel recently. It’s very difficult (and very expensive!) to find a Rover motorcycle these days, so this motorised Rover is an interesting (and affordable) period option. It’s in running order, is registered at DVLA and could also easily be registered to ride on the prestigious Pioneer Run.